Thousands of pounds worth of counterfeit tobacco and cigarettes were seized from a shop in Hinckley last year.

Trading Standards officers carried out multiple raids on an un-named store in the town, and managed to prevent almost £3,000 worth of goods from going on sale.

The shop was selling the imported and knock-off products to get around current UK tax laws.

These figures come after a crack down in the Leicestershire area by Trading Standards officers on counterfeiters, which has led to almost £1m worth off illegals goods being seized between April 2013 and March 2014.

Councillor Joe Orson, Leicestershire County Council cabinet member for Trading Standards, said: “Selling counterfeit goods is illegal and is damaging to both the people that buy them and the brands they rip off.”

Smoking fake tobacco and cigarettes can pose a serious threat to people’s health, as it is not produced under controlled conditions and has even been known to contain flies, mould and faeces.

Cllr Orson added: “I’m delighted with what our Trading Standards officers achieved last year to help businesses to trade fairly and keep residents safe.”

David Bull, head of Trading Standards, said: “Our work tackling the scourge of counterfeit goods not only protects the public but will help legitimate businesses to thrive. We are keen to do this by providing advice and guidance to businesses while driving out the rogues.”

Anyone with concerns about counterfeit or unsafe goods can contact Consumer Advice Consumer Service on 0345 404 0506 or if you want to report potential sellers of counterfeit goods contact: telltradingstandards@leics.gov.uk